Vizsla

The Vizsla is a beloved Hungarian dog known for their impressive versatility. These are proper hunting dogs, built to be agile and fast. At home, they make brilliant companions who can temper their athletic pursuits. Read on to learn more about the Vizsla.

Description of the Vizsla

Muscular, but lithe, these dogs look like true athletes. This breed has a short, smooth coat. Most Vizslas are a beautiful golden-rust color. The Vizsla’s eyes give off their loving personality: alert, but with a surprising depth.

These judicious hunters have a long history with the Hungarians. They were used by the Magyar people, a group of nomads that eventually settled on Hungarian soil. The Magyar ravaged Europe in their day, and required quick and agile companions, both equine and canine.

So the Vizsla was born. Today, they are much more popular hunters.

Life Expectancy and Size

These dogs are of medium size. The stand between 22 and 24 inches at the shoulder, and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds.

Unfortunately, they have some significant genetic problems that hinder their life expectancy. Healthy Vizslas can live between 12 and 14 years, although many have problems far before that. Maintaining this breed’s weight and fitness can help them to stay healthy for as long as possible.

Protective Ability

These dogs are not ideal for protection. They are simply too friendly! For most families, that’s a good thing. Some Vizslas may alert their owners to new sights and sounds, acting as a reasonable watchdog. However, most are not known for being quick to bark.

Training

The Vizsla approached everything with a big grin on his face. These dogs are eager and willing to learn.

If they have any faults, it’s that they are simply too eager. They may move on to the next activity without you if you’re not careful. Keep training sessions short and sweet to maintain their attention.

As sporting dogs, the Vizsla appreciates a good job. They prefer structured training sessions to off the cuff corrections. These intelligent workers enjoy feeling a sense of accomplishment and completing jobs.

Energy Level

Bred for the outdoors, this breed still has the endurance that helped them succeed as hunters in Hungary and as nomads on the road. They need plenty of exercise in order to remain sane and manageable. Of course, keeping the Vizsla fit will also help them to live long, healthy lives.

What Living with a Vizsla is Like

This breed is a good choice for vivacious owners that want a loyal companion to keep up with their active lives. The Vizsla is in athletic dog that enjoys being occupied, especially in the outdoors.

They are also happy and loving family members. In fact, they even enjoy snuggles! These dogs are friendlier than many others with strangers. Early socialization can ensure that they’re polite with everyone.

Care of the Vizsla

The Vizsla was bred to be versatile and sturdy, and they still show those characteristics today. For those that can handle their exercise needs, these dogs will make great pets.

Environmental Needs

This breed generally has enough muscle to keep him warm in winter and a sleek enough coat to keep him cool in summer. That being said, his short hair does not offer the most protection in frigid temperatures. Make sure to monitor his time outside in the winter. The Vizsla should be fine while racing around, but may become cold if simply lounging.

Exercise Needs

These dogs are very adept at hunting, tracking, and agility. They would be the perfect choice for an owner that enjoys taking canine companions on bike rides or runs.

Barring that, make sure to take them for adequate walks whenever they do not have the space to run around. Ideally, the Vizsla should have access to green space at least once a day. Be careful to monitor them, as their hunting instincts may lead them to chase things into harm’s way.

Shedding and Grooming

The Vizsla does shed, with seasonal fluctuations. Brushing during this time can decrease the amount of hair that ends up around the house. Otherwise, their tough coat is easy to keep. Simply brush them occasionally to remove dirt and dry skin. They only need baths when they begin to smell. It’s perfectly fine to simply wipe them down with a grooming mitt until that point comes.

Ideal Home Environment

With the right owner, the Vizsla will thrive. It is important that this dog’s family is active and attentive. The Vizsla should not be left alone for significant periods. Adequate land, or access to trails, is also advised.

These are friendly dogs that should be fine with other family pets. They’re good with kids, too. Early in life, they may be boisterous, so be careful with very small children. Early socialization will help these dogs to become polite adults.

Health Concerns

Unfortunately, these dogs have some serious health issues, and many are inherited.

Like with many dogs, joint pain and eye problems can develop, especially later in life. The Vizsla is also susceptible to epilepsy, heart disease, and some forms of cancer. Working with a reputable breeder and maintaining the Vizsla’s fitness are the surest ways to keep them as healthy as possible.

Behavior Problems

Most behavior problems are completely preventable. Ensuring that these dogs receive proper exercise can decrease the likelihood that they become destructive or barky. The Vizsla is known to chew when bored or lonely. Besides providing enough social time and exercise, offering them chew toys can be a great way to keep the Vizsla busy.

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